A few weeks ago I was part of a great discussion at a Democracy Cafe about ways we can create a more loving world. Wouldn’t it be awesome to live in a more loving world? How can we work as a team to make that happen?

Here was the #1 suggestion: Greet strangers with warmth.
Most people are kind when you’re kind to them. And while it can be intimidating to start a conversation with someone you don’t know, it’s a blast to meet as strangers and leave as friends. Most people are looking for community and connections and welcome a friendly smile. Trust that it’s never wrong to be kind.

Don’t waste time on fear, anger, gossip, or negativity.
When you’re afraid of something, stand your ground in your body and in your mind. Stop and breathe to help the fear or anger pass. When you catch yourself starting to jump in on gossip, stop. And choose humor over anger or negativity when things go amiss. Everything that happens to you is a lesson. You have a limited amount of time here on Earth. How do you want to spend it?

Accept things you can’t change and move on.
You can’t always change the world around you or the people around you, but you can change how you react to your circumstances. Everything in your life isn’t going to be perfect. You can choose to be fussy. Choose to be happy.

Stick to your word.
Show up on time. Be someone other people trust and can depend on.

Leave things a little better than you found them.
For me, this includes picking up trash when I see it and straightening up public bathrooms! 

Do work that’s beneficial to your community – however you define community. 

Be generous.
Being generous doesn’t necessarily mean giving away money. Share what you have – time, energy, ideas, love.

Be curious.
Curiosity helps you connect with people and with the world. Being curious at a core level means you are always learning no matter where you are or what you’re doing.

Take responsibility for your actions.
Past, present, and future – lead by example.

Celebrate each day.
Even your worst days teach you something.

We live on an amazing blue planet. Wouldn’t it be nice if it was a more loving place?

Here’s what’s happening in Maine as the days and nights cool, the winter berries ripen, and a wildflower makes one last bloom.

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